While Parts A, B, C, and D are widely known,
the concept of Medicare Part N is less familiar. This guide aims to
clarify what Medicare Part N entails, its benefits, and how it fits
into the broader Medicare landscape.
What is Medicare Part N?
Medicare Part N is a lesser-known supplemental
insurance plan that helps cover out-of-pocket costs not included in
the standard Medicare Parts A and B. It is one of the many Medigap
(Medicare Supplement Insurance) plans that beneficiaries can
purchase to reduce their healthcare expenses. Medigap plans are
standardized and regulated by the federal government but are sold by
private insurance companies.
Coverage and Benefits
Medicare Part N offers a range of benefits
designed to minimize out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries. Some of
the key benefits include:
Hospital Coinsurance: Medicare Part N
covers the coinsurance costs associated with hospital stays that are
not fully covered by Original Medicare (Part A).
Skilled Nursing Facility Care: This plan
helps pay for skilled nursing facility care, which can be a
significant expense for many beneficiaries.
Part B Coinsurance: Medicare Part N
covers the coinsurance or copayment costs for doctor visits and
outpatient services under Medicare Part B. However, it does not
cover the Part B deductible.
Emergency Care Abroad: For those who
travel internationally, Medicare Part N offers limited coverage for
emergency medical care outside the United States.
Exclusions and Limitations
While Medicare Part N provides substantial
coverage, it is important to understand its limitations. Notably,
Part N does not cover:
Part B Deductible: Beneficiaries are
responsible for the annual deductible associated with Medicare Part
B.
Excess Charges: Medicare Part N does not
cover excess charges, which are additional fees some doctors may
charge beyond the Medicare-approved amount.
Long-Term Care: Extended long-term care,
such as custodial care in a nursing home, is not covered under this
plan.
Prescription Drugs: While Part N helps
with many medical costs, it does not cover prescription drugs.
Beneficiaries must enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan for
drug coverage.
Eligibility and Enrollment
To be eligible for Medicare Part N, individuals
must first be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B. The best
time to enroll in a Medigap plan like Part N is during the Medigap
Open Enrollment Period, which starts the first month a beneficiary
is 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During this period,
beneficiaries have a guaranteed right to purchase any Medigap policy
available in their area without medical underwriting.
Cost Considerations
The cost of Medicare Part N varies based on
several factors, including the beneficiary's age, location, and the
insurance company providing the plan. Premiums for Part N can be
lower than other Medigap plans, making it an attractive option for
those seeking to balance coverage and affordability. However, it is
important to compare different plans and insurers to find the best
option for individual needs.
Page Last Updated: 20 March 2025